Certain dental terms cause more fear and anxiety in the general public than others. One of them is certainly “root canal.” Yikes! Another is a dental abscess. It’s worse when you don’t even know what the word actually means, relating to dental problems. Learning that you have a dental abscess may sound like you have a huge gaping hole in your mouth (and we’re not talking about your throat!), but that’s not the case. Knowing what certain terms are all about can go a long way toward alleviating fear, and instead ensuring that you get prompt, quality treatment from your Fort Lauderdale, FL dentist.

What is a Dental Abscess?

A dental abscess is a serious infection that occurs in or around a tooth, usually as a result of bacteria entering through cavities, cracks, or gum disease. When bacteria reach the inner part of the tooth or gums, the body’s immune system reacts by sending white blood cells to fight the infection, which leads to a buildup of pus. This collection of pus forms a painful swelling, which is what we call a dental abscess. The condition can cause intense discomfort and, if not treated, may lead to severe complications. We don’t want that.

Symptoms of a Dental Abscess

A dental abscess typically causes throbbing pain, which can be sharp and persistent. The pain may radiate to the jaw, neck, or ear, and it often worsens when lying down. Swelling is another common symptom, affecting the gums, face, or neck. The area around the affected tooth might become extremely sensitive, and even eating or drinking can trigger discomfort.

The thing is, you can’t diagnose your own dental abscess. You might think it’s an abscess when it’s something else entirely. Why guess? Contact Florida Smiles Dental today to book an appointment with your Fort Lauderdale, FL dentist.